Ten Prime Huckleberry Picking Spots in Oregon’s Forests
As the company of Douglas firs stand tall and the sweet scent of moss fills the air, one of Oregon’s treasures, ripe, juicy huckleberries, begins to form a canvas of purple in our beloved woodlands. These tiny berries, kissed by the sun and nurtured by Oregon’s rich soil, offer a delight shared with wildlife and fellow Oregonians.
Ready to scan the forest floor for these hidden gems? Here are ten spots loved by locals where you can find plenty of huckleberries for your pancakes or jam.
1. Columbia Gorge
Columbia Gorge, also the windsurfing capital of the world, is home to oodles of huckleberry patches. Especially around the Angel’s Rest trailhead, there are generous supplies. Caution: gorge winds can make for a fun, but challenging picking experience.
2. Mount Hood National Forest
You’ll find thick clusters of huckleberries around scenic Lost Lake. They pair wonderfully with a catch of the day from the seasonal fishing derby. Remember, this is also black bear country; share the bounty respectfully.3. Santiam Pass
This part of Willamette National Forest has an array of spots to pick ’til your bucket overflows. Try the Pamelia Lake or Duffy Lake trailheads; both have a delightful huckleberry presence come late summer.4. Badger Creek Wilderness
Rippling blue streams add a serene melody while picking berries near the Badger Creek trail. For our friends in Wasco County, this is indeed a local treasure.5. Saddle Mountain
Clatsop State Forest’s pride, Saddle Mountain, beholds the reward of huckleberries after a satisfying hike. Keep close to the trail; the wildlife is abundant here.6. Mount Jefferson Wilderness
In the shadows of Oregon’s second-highest peak, patches of huckleberries freckle the landscape near Marion Lake. As Oregonians, we let no berry go to waste; remember to tread lightly.7. McKenzie River Trail
The riparian zones along the river take on a purple hue when huckleberries are in season. Show up early for the best yields, and you may have company from river otters in the vicinity.8. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
A bit of a drive for folks in Portland or Eugene, but the abundant huckleberries along the Illinois River Trail are a worthy reward. As the motto of Oregon goes, she flies with her own wings, bring ample supplies.9. Mount Pisgah
This close-to-town favorite for Eugene locals is more than just a place for a lovely city-view hike. The lower elevations of the trails have the best concentration of huckleberry patches.10. Cougar Mountain
In the Tillamook State Forest, Cougar Mountain’s abundant greenery hides cascades of huckleberries. Take a scenic break at the Wilson River while you’re there.These spots may be favorites for berries, but they are so much more. They’re part of the thread that weaves the fabric of Oregon, the places that hold our shared memories, and the landscapes that we are all stewards of. So grab a bucket, but leave no trace. Here’s to another huckleberry season in our beloved Oregon. Happy picking!